Lincoln Makes History Pierside In Laem Chebang
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS060421-12
Release Date: 4/21/2006 1:26:00 PM
By Journalist 1st Class (SW) Joaquin Juatai, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs
LAEM CHEBANG, Thailand (NNS) -- USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) made history April 20, mooring in Laem Chebang, Thailand, the first time a U.S. aircraft carrier has done so.
Previously, carriers visiting Thailand anchored off the coast and used liberty launches; a lengthy and dangerous way for Sailors to go ashore in Laem Chebang, said Master Chief Boatswain’s Mate (SW) Robert W. Dean.
According to Dean, a Navy harbor pilot from Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, being pierside is a much better alternative.
“You’re giving Sailors a safer atmosphere for getting ashore,” said Dean, who was specifically sent to Lincoln to assist the ship in getting into and out of Laem Chebang safely.
In the past, the liberty launch system presented a much more dangerous shore-to-ship evolution, as the prevailing winds off the coast of the Pattaya Beach area tend to pick up in the evenings, said Dean.
“You had to wade in to shore [from the liberty boats] in the past,” he added.
Lincoln is visiting Thailand as part of a scheduled Western Pacific deployment. Sailors plan to enjoy liberty, participate in community service projects and take advantage of tours offered by Lincoln’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation division during the port visit.
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